Look out when building!

Concrete slabs form an important part of termite management nowadays, with slabs being used as termite barriers as they are considered termite resistant (if poured in accord with AS2870) the only potential problem is where pipes or other materials penetrate the slab. Whilst things such as plumbing and electrical conduits are easy to locate and treat, sometimes there are  building practices that inadvertently create penetrations through the slab, such as when putting in temporary formwork during construction of slabs, as demonstrated by these photos.

Reo bar used to peg out the step down in wet areas of this slab were left in place, creating a termite highway!

It is important to check all potential entry points by ensuring no penetrations through the slab are left untreated.

Reticulation - post construction.

Termite protection is often overlooked during a renovation, but in reality it can be an opportune time to install termite protection, as is demonstrated on this commercial building which was plagued by termite problems over its life. This reticulation system allows the building to be treated for decades to come with no disturbance to the structure. A little bit of money spent at the time of renovation can save a lot of money in remedial work down the track.

Reticulation being installed on a commercial building.

Many people don't realise that a reticulation system can be installed on an existing building.

Physical barriers - what to look for.

A Physical termite barrier drops down below a timber adjacent to a brick wall and below footpath height.

Physical termite barriers, like all types of termite barriers, are designed to prevent termites getting into a building undetected. A physical barrier does this by preventing them being able to access the inside of the building and forcing them out. To that end, the barrier may be connected to either a concrete slab, or it comes out to a visual inspection zone, as is illustrated in these pictures.

The pivotal thing about visual inspection zones is that they need to be clear of obstructions and easy to see. The Australian Standard (AS3660.1) as well as all barrier manufacturers recommend that a clearance of 75mm be available between finished ground height and the barrier.

So if your home or a home that you are considering buying has a physical barrier, then you may want to check that there is sufficient clearance around the perimeter. Making sure that there isn't anything covering it up, as the barrier cannot work unless it has been installed correctly, irrespective of the type of barrier used.

A physical barrier running into a step, for this barrier to work, it needs to be cast into the concrete step. It's important to check all these details. This barrier was not cast in, potentially allowing termites to get in undetected.

Signs of termite damage!

Obvious mudding and damage in a wall - Note the depressed section around the mud where the termites have eaten out the plasterboard.

If you see mudding around an architrave or wall, then you probably have termites! It may not be as obvious as this, so that's why it's good to get regular inspections. Usually, when the termites are this obvious, there is a fair bit of damage done underneath.

Termites may cause mudding on the wall like this in preparation for a colonising flight. The termite colony releases many winged reproductives called alates. These are usually dispatched from a higher location on a mild evening during the spring and summer months, typically when there is high ambient humidity. So if you see many of these swarming inside your house, you know that the colony has already found it's way in!

Laundry woes

Termite mudding behind a tap in a laundry.

A good termite inspection will reveal damage and infestations which may not be obvious. In this instance, there was little visible evidence of termites until a little more investigation revealed termites in behind the laundry wall. Often, looking behind easily removable fittings can make a difference between a quick and thorough inspection! Whilst. There was moisture discovered, further investigation confirmed it was a termite infestation.

Treated timbers - use them correctly!

A treated pine frame with termites throughout.

Treated timbers are a great way of preventing damage to timbers in service, however, not all treatments are created equal. 

Here is a picture of a piece of treated pine frame that was infested with termites in less than 18 months. The problem? It was in constant contact with moist soil, this timber was not designed to withstand this kind of environment. 

Looks pretty - the termites think it too!

Heavy foliage against buildings is surprisingly common.

Having plants up against your home can be a large contributing factor to attracting termites for several reasons.

1. Plants need water, and so do termites. Having plants that need water against your home only adds to the problem of attracting termites, just having the extra foliage allows moisture to remain longer right next to your home. 
2. Termites feed on cellulose in timber and plant material, having this material in any quantity near your home adds as a further attractant.
3. Having a sheltered area that is concealed makes it even harder to find termites, if you have to attack your garden with a machete like you're travelling through the amazon jungle before you find part of your home, then the termites may be in the home for a while before anyone discovers it, like some lost Amazonian tribe... 

And finally, wood rot needs persistently moist conditions and rotting wood is not only an attractant, but is a problem in itself.

So try to keep your home free from those friendly climbing plants, and you'll be discouraging termites.

Pick up that piece of wood!

Termites eating out a piece of wood in a garden.

This clearly demonstrates why it's important to keep your garden areas clear of timber sitting on the ground. It's important not to store timber where termites can easily find it, as it attracts termites to the area. The next stop could easily be your house!